I don’t normally post on the weekend but I received via a friend in Australia a rather amazing (but incredibly sad) link to abondoned homes in Detroit that I just had to share.
I used to live in Detroit , at first relocating from London over a zillion years ago, I hated it. Run down, derelict, dangerous and scary. BUT then I landed this incredible job with two amazing guys – architects Doug McIntosh and Micheal Poris who, when I get tired and grumpy and fed up with running my own business (and think I just want to open a little cafe and bake all day) I think of the those two guys and their passion , the immense hard work and incredibly long hours they worked and their determination to turn around a city into what it once was. Lived in, loved, busselling full of energy and life. These guys made me love Detroit – the architecture, the history the farmers market down town, Cranbrook I could go on and on.
Obviously the economy has taken its toll and Detroit as shown here it is struggling. If I had all the money in the world I would take one of these buildings turn it into a flag ship store, with cafe and bistro and move our factory there too. I don’t regrettably but if I did as crazy as everyone would tell me I am thats what I would do.
Enough from me Fraudie and I are off to the Tow Path for breakfast with papers.
I reside in Detroit. It is blatantly apparent that there is much that needs improvement however; there are wonderful people, places, institutions, and activities here which are seldom depicted. We are parents, builders, poets, students, musicians, educators, artist, proud home owners, actors, entrepreneurs and extraordinary citizens who love this city. We strive each and every day to make Detroit a better place. Please lift us with positive thoughts of light, love, peace and prosperity.
xx
I live in Grand Rapids, MI, on the other side of the mitten. I feel I must admit that I have harbored some very negative thoughts about Detroit. It conjures up thoughts of dirt and fear. I have an unending admiration for those who proudly make it their home. It would make me very happy indeed if before I die the city of Detroit could be restored to its former glory. This post and the words of Ms. Jennifer Jones have inspired me to stop thinking of this city negatively and instead send some positive and hopeful eastward vibes. Thank you!
Wow! Abigail these photos are absolutely astonishing!
They look like sets from a Tim Burton film yet to be released….
I am completely moved by the tragic beauty of these incredible photos.
Thank you so much for posting. xx